Celebrate Aberdeen: Prepared To Be Inspired

If you want something done, ask a busy person. So when we went knocking at Carla Furneaux’s door, we knew she’d help us out.

Despite her involvement in a flurry of amazing city centre projects, Aberdeen Inspired’s marketing and communications manager took time out to explain their rationale for supporting Celebrate Aberdeen.

When and why did Aberdeen Inspired first get involved with Celebrate Aberdeen?

We first supported the event in 2013 – for multiple reasons. Celebrate Aberdeen provides Aberdeen Inspired with an additional opportunity to engage with our levy payers and encourage wider community connections between them.  As city centre ambassadors, we wholeheartedly support anything that creates good feeling in Aberdeen! Last but not least, many local charities have a presence in the city centre. Naturally, we wanted to give them our support.

Tell us a bit more about Aberdeen Inspired’s raison d’être – and why we’re a good match.

Aberdeen Inspired works on behalf of levy payers in the city centre with the dual aims of making improvements and increasing footfall. We support any initiative that meets these two aims – and Celebrate Aberdeen most definitely does.

What’s your own best Celebrate Aberdeen memory to date?

My favourite part would have to be the parade!

There are some new aspects to the 2016 programme. What are you most looking forward to?

The activities and music in Union Terrace Gardens are a must-attend.  Aberdeen Inspired’s weekend street art festival will take place simultaneously under the arches. We hope it will add to the celebratory atmosphere!

The tough economic climate in Aberdeen is at the forefront of everyone’s minds. What are your thoughts on this?

I think it’s more important than ever that an event like Celebrate Aberdeen continues to take place. It provides a very visual reminder of the city’s resilience and ability to pull together, when required. It’s also worth mentioning that all of the activities and entertainment throughout the weekend are free, which is a boon for the families, groups and individuals who come along to support it.

What do you feel are the long-term benefits of an event such as Celebrate Aberdeen?

Celebrate Aberdeen has built its profile and expanded year on year.  This can only help to improve longer-term connections and relationships between communities.

Last one! What would you say to someone who is considering coming along to Celebrate Aberdeen for the first time?

Bring all of your family and friends – there will be something for everyone to enjoy!